The reduced size, weight and power consumption of lithium-ion (Li-ion) batteries has been a boon for medical device manufacturers seeking to create more portable and convenient products. But the efficiency gains of Li-ion batteries are tempered by the increased safety risks and regulatory concerns the technology poses.
As multitudes of viral videos confirm, products with Li-ion rechargeable batteries have the potential to overheat, explode and catch fire.

Nearly a decade ago the Peanut Corporation of America (PCA) had to shutter operations after corporate malfeasance led to one of the most massive and lethal food-borne contamination cases in U.S. history. A nationwide outbreak of Salmonella-contaminated peanut products killed at least nine people and sickened thousands, ultimately bankrupting the company and leading to numerous lawsuits and criminal charges against top officials for knowingly shipping tainted food.
The outbreak caused the most extensive food recall in U.S.